Jackson memorabilia auctioned for 2 million dollars

( news.sawf.org ) - Memorabilia from the Jackson family pop dynasty almost touched the 2 million dollars mark during a two-day auction in Las Vegas. More than 1,100 items had been put up for grabs at the sale, led by auctioneers Guernsey's, including souvenirs from Michael's solo career, and his time in The Jacksons.

The two-day auction was the biggest-ever sale of Jackson family memorabilia, including clothes, music sheets and gold disc awards belonging to Michael, Janet, Jermaine, Tito and La Toya.

The final sales tally is still being calculated but the figure is expected to be between 1.5 million dollars and 2 million dollars, with some of the proceeds going to charity. Universal Express Inc, a luggage company, which acquired the items last March, sold the Jackson collection.

The iconic black and red military style jacket worn by Michael in 1987 was one of the biggest earners, fetching 24,000 dollars. A collection of gold and platinum albums presented to the Jackson family for sales of 'We Are the World', a charity recording by a group of artists known as USA for Africa, sold for 20,000 dollars.

A 1960s ID card belonging to Michael Jackson, identifying him as a Motown Records artist was sold for 9,000 dollars and a glittery jacket owned by the pop star went for 19,000 dollars, while a 1984 telegram from the late actor Marlon Brando to Jackson sold for 1,600 dollars.

"We are thrilled with the results of this initial auction," the BBC quoted Richard Altomare, Chairman and CEO of Universal Express, as saying.

"But most importantly, I am excited for the children's charities that will be benefiting from the outcome, and feel proud that we could help these vital organisations," he added. Jackson opposed the auction at first, but the issue was eventually resolved amicably.